Payroll4Free vs AME Software

Is Payroll4Free truly free, or is there a hidden cost? User reviews from the past year suggest Payroll4Free delivers on its promise of a free and easy-to-use payroll solution, particularly for small businesses with 25 or fewer employees. Users praise its intuitive interface, highlighting the guided account setup wizard and straightforward navigation. They appreciate the software's ability to handle both employee and contractor payments, simplifying the payment process. The automatic tax calculations are a major plus, easing the burden of payroll tax compliance. Some users even compared their manual calculations to Payroll4Free's reports, finding them to be spot-on. However, the "free" aspect comes with caveats. The software is ad-supported, which some users find intrusive. While the free version allows for 12 pay runs per year, exceeding this limit requires an upgrade. Additional fees apply for features like direct deposit, contractor payments, and multi-state employee payments. Users also point out limitations in functionality, noting that Payroll4Free is best suited for basic payroll needs. Larger companies or those requiring advanced features like robust reporting, automation, and analytics might find Payroll4Free lacking. Alternatives like OnPay, with its base price of $40 per month plus $6 per employee, offer more comprehensive features. In conclusion, Payroll4Free is a viable option for startups and small businesses with limited budgets and straightforward payroll requirements. Its ease of use, free basic features, and accurate tax calculations make it an attractive choice for those seeking a no-frills payroll solution. However, businesses with more complex needs or a larger workforce might find themselves outgrowing Payroll4Free's capabilities and needing to consider paid alternatives.

Is AME Software the "ace" up your sleeve for payroll, or does it leave you feeling confused? User reviews from the past year paint a mixed picture of AME Software, particularly focusing on its payroll capabilities. Some users appreciate its simplicity and affordability, highlighting features like unlimited checks and direct deposit processing as major pluses, especially for smaller businesses. However, a chorus of concern emerges regarding the software's outdated interface and clunky functionality, with some users even likening it to stepping back in time. For instance, one user pointed out that "almost everything has to be done by hand." The recent update to version 3.0 has been met with resistance, with users reporting significant glitches and a preference for the older version. While the company offers live technical support, some users have reported difficulties in getting issues resolved effectively. This mixed bag suggests that AME Software might be best suited for businesses prioritizing affordability and simplicity over modern features and a seamless user experience, particularly those already familiar with the software's quirks. However, businesses seeking a more contemporary and feature-rich payroll solution might find AME Software lacking and should consider exploring alternative options.